Maryland should tax luxuries, not necessities

Our legislators would do well to consider the consequences of increased taxes. The primary concern should be to examine what are necessities and what are luxuries. For example, many taxpayers drive to work, make a minimal wage, have lots of expenses, and buy gasoline every week. Raising the gas tax — gasoline being in the category of necessity — accomplishes little.

People need to get to work, to pay the rent, to provide food for their families, to pay medical bills and prescriptions, etc. These kinds of taxes would eventually have a negative impact on all and could possibly cause people to apply for some type of public assistance.

The people who are buying wine, beer, chips, pretzels, movie theater tickets, sporting event tickets at outrageous prices, and Broadway show tickets can obviously afford the luxuries of life. Taxing these things makes more sense.

Yes, our state has a great need for increased revenue, but increasing taxes on the wrong items increases problems all around. Go for the extras, the luxuries that many enjoy without severe consequences, not the necessities!